Walk around the Gros Banc Bird Reserve

Starting point: La Redoute car park in Merville.

(S/E) Cross the road (Chemin de la Baie) and take the footpath.

(1) Turn right after a few metres and you’ll reach a birdwatching hide where you can spot various species of birds.

(2) Continue along the Baie de l’Orne, skirting the beach and the nature reserve, until you reach another observation point (please note that, for safety reasons, the observation point was closed when the route was recorded in August 2026).

(3) Carry on towards a third observation point.

(4) Carry on and return to the road (Chemin de la Baie), then follow the Greenway which runs alongside the nature reserve.

(1) Take the path to the right of the car park, then turn immediately right and walk a few dozen metres to discover the Redoute de Merville.

(5) Retrace your steps to reach the car park (S/E).

An easy walk along the River Orne; there are some slightly muddy sections when it has rained… make sure you wear suitable footwear (trainers, walking boots).

The Bird Sanctuary to spot some birds (bring binoculars if you’re a keen birdwatcher).

Orne Bay.

The Redoute de Merville.